MICHAEL Appleton says he has no immediate plans to make changes to Oxford United’s coaching staff.

The 38-year-old began his job as head coach this morning, meeting the players and media for the first time since being officially appointed by new chairman Darryl Eales and chief executive Mark Ashton to replace Gary Waddock on Friday.

There was immediately speculation Appleton would bring in an assistant, with Darren Moore, who was his right hand man at Blackburn Rovers, linked with a move.

United potentially have room to add to their staff, with Andy Melville leaving as first-team coach in May.

Appleton was clear no-one would depart, but while he did not rule out Moore, the new United boss will take his time.

He said: “I think Darren is always going to get mentioned because of my background with him as a player and a friend.

“He’s someone I took from West Brom to go to Blackburn, so he will always get mentioned.

“He would be on a list of many people that I could bring in if that was the case.

“Nothing’s been done and I wouldn’t be in a rush to do anything like that.

“There’s more than capable staff here already to get us through this period.

"When I get time to assess everything, if I feel we need to add then we will add, but it certainly won’t be to replace anyone.”

Appleton has not had a permanent role since being sacked by Blackburn Rovers in March 2013 and is thrilled to have a new challenge.

He said: "I'm delighted, excited is probably the word.

"It's a fantastic job to have and I hope to hone my skills."

He added: "I genuinely believe this is the right place for me.

"I've been having positive conversations with Darryl and Mark, they are very ambitious people."

“They were very good at selling the club to me.

“You’ve only got to look around the facilities here, they’re spot on for this level.

“It’s a small group of players but they’re young and it will be refreshing to work with a group of players that will show an honesty, a hunger and belief to do well.”

The former Manchester United trainee will begin the search for new signings straight away.

His first game in charge comes on Saturday, when the U's kick-off their pre-season at Farnborough.

Comments

Dolly76
2:23pm Thu 10 Jul 14

Isn't it interesting to hear people speak. I was happy to give Gary Waddock a chance, but when he spoke about not replacing Melville, I assumed that meant he wasn't allowed to. When Appleton says it, I'm happy to accept that he wants to evaluate the staff in place before he makes any appointment.

Isn't it interesting to hear people speak. I was happy to give Gary Waddock a chance, but when he spoke about not replacing Melville, I assumed that meant he wasn't allowed to. When Appleton says it, I'm happy to accept that he wants to evaluate the staff in place before he makes any appointment.Dolly76

Isn't it interesting to hear people speak. I was happy to give Gary Waddock a chance, but when he spoke about not replacing Melville, I assumed that meant he wasn't allowed to. When Appleton says it, I'm happy to accept that he wants to evaluate the staff in place before he makes any appointment.

Ipsoregulated

This website and associated newspapers adhere to the Independent Press Standards Organisation's Editors' Code of Practice. If you have a complaint about the editorial content which relates to inaccuracy or intrusion, then please contact the editor here. If you are dissatisfied with the response provided you can contact IPSO here